UN chief condemns Mpeketoni raid, seeks justice

June 17, 2014 6:16 am

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By SIMON NDONGA, Ban reiterated the United Nations’ solidarity with the government in the fight against terrorism/AFPNAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 17 – UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon has condemned Sunday night’s attack in Mpeketoni where at least 48 people were killed while reiterating the need for those responsible to be brought to book.

While expressing his condolences to the families affected, Ban reiterated the United Nations’ solidarity with the government in the fight against terrorism.

“The Secretary-General condemns in the strongest terms the attacks on 15 June 2014 in Mpeketoni, Kenya, which reportedly killed at least 48 people and wounded many more. The Secretary-General extends his condolences to the families of the deceased and the Government of Kenya and wishes the wounded a swift recovery,” a statement from the UN office stated.

He further emphasised the need for the government to carry out thorough investigations into the incident while at the same time respecting human rights.

The attack occurred when eight gunmen hijacked two vans at Witu and commandeered the driver to Mpeketoni where they opened fire indiscriminately at anyone they came across.

It is believed they were joined by their accomplices who were already in the town because witnesses said they saw more than 50 attackers.

Following the incident, there was an exchange of words between Jubilee and CORD legislators as they traded accusations over the attacks with the Government side indicating that the activities of the Opposition were to blame for insecurity, a claim which was dismissed.